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International security is a vital part of ensuring the safety of a government and its people. It is the goal of every security agency to gather intelligence to produce quality reports that can be used to anticipate and forecast political and military events and help government leaders to make complex decisions. In the United States there are a wide range of jobs in international security that help to achieve this goal.

Diplomatic Security Agents

Diplomatic security agents are federal employees who can be stationed anywhere in the world. In the United States, these agents protect the secretary of state and investigate possible passport and visa fraud. When stationed overseas, these agents provide security coordination and advise ambassadors of security protocols and information. Candidates for this role must be at least 20 years old to apply and 21 by the time they are appointed to their position. Candidates must complete written and oral examinations successfully and pass tests of physical endurance. Speaking languages in addition to English also is highly desirable, but not necessarily mandatory.

Security Technical Specialists

Security technical specialists are highly trained to develop, implement and maintain technical security programs during US diplomatic missions. They are placed all over the world and support the Bureau of Diplomatic Security's global technical security programs. Applicants for this role must be at least 21 and have a high school diploma. Specialists spend a good portion of their careers on assignments overseas, so it is important for a prospective applicant to take this into consideration before applying.

Security Engineering Officers

Like many other international security personnel, security engineering officers serve globally. They are highly skilled engineers that oversee technical and informational security programs at diplomatic and consular posts worldwide. In the US, these engineers provide crucial support for American overseas operations. Applicants must be at least 21 and have a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering or some other related area of study from a US college or university that is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Diplomatic Couriers

Diplomatic couriers are responsible for the secure movement of classified US government material across international borders, safeguarding and escorting diplomatic pouches of classified and sensitive material between US diplomatic missions and the Department of State. Diplomatic couriers spend a great deal of their careers overseas, so this is an important aspect to consider before applying for this position. To qualify, applicants must be at least 21, have at least an associate level degree and pass a thorough medical exam. The starting salary of a diplomatic courier ranges from $35,265 to $51,788, depending on qualifications, assignment locations and other criteria.

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About the Author

M. Skylar Ezell has been writing about politics, entertainment, urban culture and career-related topics since 2007. His communications work for Fortune 500 companies in health care, technology and hospitality has resulted in international recognition, including the Association for Talent Development BEST Award and Achievers Global Award. He is a graduate of Georgia State University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and public relations.